Secular Ethics

Religion is not the arbiter of morality; and secular ethics is not the “moral relativism” that Christians try to suggest. There are certain “life values” that all communities need to share, irrespective of their beliefs. Here are just a few inclusive values; most predate Christianity by centuries, and others have evolved since the Age of Enlightenment — through thoughtful and rational discussion. They are not “Commandments”, they are simply suggestions for improving our lives, for the good of all.

OURSELVES

There is only one life and we owe it to ourselves to make the most of it. No one will do it for us. Our happiness is our own responsibility, and within our own control.

Understand how your mind works and interacts with the world and others.

Understand your body and the effects of what you do to it, and what you put in it.

Maximise the opportunities available to you by educating yourself.

Increase your awareness and understanding of the world.

Take charge of your mind and achieve peace of mind and happiness.

Explore your sexuality.

Exercise.

Find your own purpose and meaning in life.

Live a healthy life.

Be honest.

Use your free will and choose for yourself how to live and what to think.

Stand up for yourself.

Practice safe sex.

Laugh, smile and enjoy your life.

Think!

OTHERS

We are not alone in this world and our interaction with others can have a profound effect on the quality of our lives, depending upon how we perceive and treat them.

Cultivate a positive attitude of respect for the other human beings you come across.

Assume the best of others; and they will live up to your expectations.

Help those less fortunate than yourself.

Treat others in a way you would like to be treated. (Confucius, 500 BCE)

Remember that rational people have their own perspective, which is equally valid.

Be nice! It is amazing the difference it makes.

Be tolerant.

Smile!

SOCIETY

Working together we can achieve more than individual and personal success. It depends upon our attitudes to society, and as individuals we can all contribute.

Strive for a fairer and more equal society.

Support justice and democracy.

Support a penal system that concentrates on rehabilitation not revenge.

Teach children how to think for themselves, not conforming to doctrines.

Support an inclusive education system that allows equal access irrespective of religion, beliefs, race or sexuality.

Support equal opportunities within employment laws, and all walks of life.

Allow people to die with dignity.

Oppose capital punishment, it is cruel and inhumane.

Question education, political or social policies based on religious dogma.

Reject all forms of corruption.

Reject all forms of cruelty.

HUMANITY

Religious and political divisions continue to undermine our long-term prospects for survival. Solutions are required to achieve basic common goals, and a collaborative secular future.